Approximately three Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are diagnosed with cancer in Australia every single day. Aboriginal Australians have a slightly lower rate of a cancer diagnosis than non-Aboriginal Australians but are almost 30 per cent more likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal Australians. The AH&MRC will be working with members to raise awareness of risk factors and promoting awareness of the importance of early detection for the community. Community and Workforce education is key to reducing the risks associated with cancer for Aboriginal people in NSW.
The AH&MRC Cancer Program delivers a range of activities including:
- Convening forums to build skills and networks among the ACCHS sector workforce, Aboriginal health professionals, community members and mainstream services
- Delivery of local workshops and planning sessions
- Assisting local groups to develop information and support initiatives based on their identified priorities
- Providing regular email communication to a large network to share updated information, resources and workforce upskilling opportunities
- Collecting and sharing examples of successful local Aboriginal cancer initiatives
- Providing Cultural expertise and relevant community consultation, input and advice to key stakeholders
